Creating Cleaner Air in Ontario

News Release

Creating Cleaner Air in Ontario

Province on Track to Eliminate Coal-Fired Generation

Ontario is one step closer to being the first jurisdiction in North America to eliminate coal as a source of electricity.

Today, the province marked the end of burning coal at the Lambton Generating Station. This leaves Nanticoke Generating Station as the last operating coal-fired facility in Southern Ontario, which is slated to stop burning coal at the end of 2013.

Ontario has committed to end coal generation by the end of 2014. Closing these plants one year ahead of schedule will save ratepayers $95 million from reduced maintenance and project costs. A coal-free energy mix will also lead to a significant reduction in harmful emissions, cleaner air and a healthier environment.

Eliminating coal-fired generation and protecting the environment while providing clean, reliable and affordable power is part of the government's plan to invest in people, build strong infrastructure and support a dynamic and innovative business climate across Ontario.

Replacing coal with cleaner generation, renewables and conservation will help ease strain on the health care system by eliminating up to 30 megatonnes of emissions that contribute to illness and premature death.

Quotes

“Ontario is committed to building a clean, modern reliable electricity system to replace dirty coal fired generation. Getting off coal is the single largest climate change initiative being undertaken in North America, equivalent to taking up to seven million cars off the road. This initiative will leave a healthier environment, cleaner air for our children and grandchildren.”